Even before the iPhone 17 series could hit the market, rumors started flying about the iPhone 18 Pro model. Speculated to launch in 2026, the iPhone 18 Pro models are rumored to pack a variable aperture, which will be seen on an iPhone for the first time. Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo said the iPhone’s main camera is getting an exciting upgrade with 48-megapixels in the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro models. Currently, the iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro models all have a fixed aperture Æ’/1.78. This means the lens is always fully open, allowing as much light as possible to pass through for optimal exposure. However, with the iPhone 18 Pro, Apple is rumored to introduce a revolutionary feature: a variable aperture.

iPhone 18 Pro camera leaked

Variable aperture in the iPhone, which is commonly found in professional DSLR and mirrorless cameras from brands like Sony and Canon, will mark a significant leap forward. With a variable aperture, users will have the power to manually adjust the amount of light entering the camera, giving them more creative control over their photos. The ability to adjust the aperture may also allow greater manipulation of depth of field – providing greater control over background blurring, a feature that could improve the way portraits and close-up shots are captured.

This new feature will give users more flexibility, especially when combined with other enhancements like Apple’s Portrait Mode, which artificially blurs the background to create a “bokeh” effect.

Another interesting part of the rumor is that Dutch company BE Semiconductor will supply the technology for the aperture blades – mechanical components that will allow the aperture to change size. This technology will make it possible for the iPhone 18 Pro’s camera to optimize its light intake for different shooting situations.

Although the feature was also previously rumored for the iPhone 17 models, it seems Apple will reserve it for the iPhone 18 Pro, which is expected to debut in September 2026. It’s still unclear whether Apple will also upgrade the sensor size of the iPhone 18 Pro, but such an increase could pave the way for even more natural and dynamic Bokeh effects in photos.

As the story of the iPhone’s camera capabilities continues to evolve, the addition of variable aperture is one of the most exciting rumors yet, promising a new level of control and creativity for iPhone photographers. Since the iPhone 18 series is speculated to arrive in 2026, the launch is still several months away. Therefore, we advise you to take this information with a pinch of salt. Exact details will be released during launch.